Homes for companion horses needed

The Blue Cross animal welfare charity is urgently appealing for companion homes for some of the horses and ponies in its care. Those providing homes through the charity’s loan scheme will continue to be assisted by a generous equine healthcare package supported by Fort Dodge Animal Health.

The companion equine healthcare pilot programme, launched last spring, has already proved extremely successful in helping to home 16 equines over the past six months. For every companion horse or pony taken on loan The Blue Cross will cover the costs of routine inoculations and an annual veterinary health check. In addition Fort Dodge Animal Health will provide their EQUEST and EQUITAPE brands of wormers free of charge. This free healthcare package helps to alleviate some of the financial outgoings associated with taking on additional equines, enabling existing horse owners to consider taking on a companion animal.

Amanda Winstone, Manager of The Blue Cross equine welfare centre in Burford, Oxfordshire said: “Sadly, companion horses are often overlooked in favour of younger rideable animals, yet companions can play a very useful role. They can provide important ‘nanny’ duties to younger horses, teaching them essential herd behaviour. They can also provide sensible company for horses living on their own. Companion horses can give enormous pleasure to people who are unable to ride any longer but still want to be involved with horses. Many owners gain immense reward from looking after a non-rideable horse.”

Working from two dedicated equine centres in Oxfordshire and Sussex, with a third to be opened in Staffordshire next year, The Blue Cross aims to rehome all horses and ponies in its care once they are physically and mentally fit enough. Every rehomed horse or pony is routinely visited twice a year with friendly centre staff and experienced field officers are on call to offer advice.

The Blue Cross is funded solely by public donations and relies on the support of equine lovers. Facilities and resources are not infinite, which means that needy horses can only be admitted to the centres once rehabilitated horses have been rehomed.

If you feel you can provide an experienced, long term home to a horse or pony in the charity’s care, contact Rebecca Wadham on 01993 822454, email equine@bluecross.org.uk or visit the website at www.bluecross.org.uk  Visitors to the site can also request a copy of the new Blue Cross equine welfare newsletter Equine Matters. 

Note to Editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing information, advice and practical support for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets fees. For further information visit the Blue Cross website at www.bluecross.org.uk

Media contact:  Sam Roberts
Direct line:  0207 932  4060